Winter hiking for a new perspective

This Winter holiday I started to hike. First on the southern side of the Alpes in South Tyrol (no snow) and after a few days on the northern side with more than enough snow. Both experiences had been great .

Walking up and down the snowy hills seemed perfect to reflect on the New Year with many plans ahead.

Let me tell you some tips before you start your winter hike up the hill, but I can tell you already the reward is worth the hike, you will feel completely oxygenized with the freshest air, your cardio will boost your immune system and your mind will be full of bright and fresh ideas.

Running errants before hiking up. XXL Cashmere Shirt by Sportmax; black jeans by COS; sneakers, Stella McCartney; Kelly Bag: Hermès

WELL INFORMED
The best way to prepare for winter weather is to stay up-to-date on the latest forecast and trail conditions for the area you want to hike in. Take a look at the chance of precipitation, be aware of any new trail notices, check the temperatures, and keep an eye out for possible winter storms. You don’t want to be hiking when a thick fog rolls in.

In addition, if you can, you should check how much snow has already fallen in the area. This will help you determine if you need snowshoes or cross-country skis for your trip.

One final tip to remember is that days are shorter in the winter season

 

WHAT TO WEAR
Sunscreen, Lip balm, tissues, eye drops in case the air is very cold and dry, waterproof outerwear, fleece and wool hat, winter boots with a strong profile and extra crampons.

I recommend wearing many different layers of cloths instead of fewer, thicker ones.

Like this you can take off different layers when getting warmer.  Carrying a backpack full of essential gear and supplies,

 

SAFTY FIRST
Especially the first time you should go with a friend or friends.

Make sure someone knows you’ve gone winter hiking. Cell phone service is extremely limited in the mountains

If you know the snow will be deep, wear snowshoes or cross-country skis to make traveling easier, and prevent post-holing (deep footprints in the snow).

The cold air might feel refreshing, but you must remember to eat and stay hydrated, warm, and dry. This will help you prevent getting hypothermia (a medical emergency when your body temperature is below normal).

It takes a lot more energy to travel through snow, so you’ll want to rest often.

If your skin turns red and feels very cold, then you should find a way to get warm, even if it means ending your winter hiking trip. This is a sign of frostbit, the first stage of frostbite, which is an injury caused by freezing. It is common on fingers, toes, the nose, ears, cheeks, and chin.

Stayaway from ski slopes as skiers might run you over.

Hagtein, Kitzbühel. Trousers: Sportmax; Jumper: Prada; Jacket: Moncler; Glasses: Oliver Peoples

BICHLALM HIKING ROUTE
The Bichlalm in the midst of the Südberge mountains is one of the best areas in the Kitzbühel region for ski mountaineers, freerides and snowshoe hikers.
Length 2.6 km

 

TRATTALMMULDE WITH HORNKÖPFELSEE HIKING ROUTE
Enjoy the breath-taking panoramic mountain view beneath the Kitzbüheler Horn
Length: 3.9 km.

 

PANORAMIC HIKING ROUTE ON THE HAHNENKAMP MOUNTAINS
Impressive high-altitude hike on the legendary Hahnenkamm
Length: 2 km